As the temperatures start to drop and the leaves turn in Virginia, it’s time to make sure your home is ready for the cold months ahead. Fall is the perfect season to tackle essential home repairs before winter weather sets in. Addressing small maintenance issues now can save you from costly damage and emergency repairs later.
At Handy Home Helpers, we help homeowners in Chesterfield, Richmond, Henrico and surrounding central Virginia areas prepare their homes for the season with expert repair and maintenance services. Here are the Top 5 Fall Repairs to Do Before Winter to keep your home comfortable, efficient, and well-protected.
1. Inspect and Repair Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against rain, wind, and snow. Before winter storms arrive, take time to inspect it thoroughly.
DIY Roof Inspection Tips:
- Look for missing, curling, or damaged shingles.
- Check for cracked flashing around vents, skylights, and chimneys.
- Examine your attic for signs of leaks or water stains.
If you spot damage, replacing shingles or resealing flashing can prevent water intrusion during winter.
Need roofing materials? Visit Home Depot’s roofing section or Lowe’s roofing supplies for repair kits and sealants.
If you notice extensive wear or leaks, Handy Home Helpers can inspect and repair your roof to ensure it’s ready for whatever the season brings.
2. Clean and Secure Gutters
Fallen leaves and debris can easily clog gutters, causing water to overflow and damage siding, windows, and your home’s foundation.
Gutter Cleaning Steps:
- Use a sturdy ladder, gloves, and a trowel to remove debris.
- Flush gutters with a garden hose to ensure proper flow.
- Check that downspouts direct water at least five feet away from your foundation.
To make future cleanings easier, install gutter guards or leaf filters.
You can find these products at Lowe’s Gutter Accessories or Home Depot’s Gutter Guards.
Handy Home Helpers provides gutter cleaning, repairs, and replacements to help protect your home from heavy fall rains and winter snowmelt.
3. Seal Windows and Doors to Stop Drafts
Even small air leaks can increase your heating bill and make your home uncomfortable during the colder months. Fall is the best time to check for drafts and apply weatherproofing.
How to Check for Leaks:
- On a windy day, feel around window frames and door edges for air movement.
- Look for visible gaps or worn-out weatherstripping.
Easy Fixes:
- Apply caulk around window and door trim.
- Replace worn weatherstripping on doors.
- Consider adding storm windows or thermal curtains for extra insulation.
Find caulk, weatherproofing kits, and insulation supplies at Home Depot or Lowe’s Weatherproofing.
Handy Home Helpers can help seal and insulate your home efficiently so you stay warm all winter long.
4. Check Exterior Paint, Siding, and Trim
Peeling paint, cracks, and wood rot often worsen during wet, cold months. Now is the time to address these issues before winter moisture seeps in.
What to Look For:
- Peeling paint or bare wood on siding or trim.
- Soft spots on fascia boards or window frames.
- Cracks or gaps in caulking around joints.
Maintenance Tips:
- Scrape and sand peeling areas.
- Prime and repaint exposed wood with exterior-grade paint.
- Replace any rotted boards before repainting.
Explore durable paints and primers at Lowe’s Exterior Paints or Home Depot Paint Supplies.
Handy Home Helpers provides painting and exterior repair services to keep your home’s finish strong and looking great year-round.
5. Service Your Heating System
Before the first frost, ensure your heating system is clean, safe, and efficient.
Steps to Take:
- Replace your furnace filter.
- Check for strange noises or odors when the heat comes on.
- Vacuum vents and clear dust from registers.
For heat pumps and gas furnaces, it’s a good idea to schedule a professional tune-up before peak usage.
You can find replacement filters and HVAC maintenance tools at Home Depot HVAC Filters or Lowe’s HVAC Section.
Handy Home Helpers can inspect and replace filters, clean vents, and make minor repairs to keep your system running efficiently.
Get Your Home Ready for Winter with Handy Home Helpers!
Taking care of these five essential fall repairs will keep your home warm, dry, and safe throughout the winter. From roof inspections and gutter cleaning to interior sealing and painting, Handy Home Helpers has you covered.
Our team proudly serves Chesterfield, Richmond, Henrico and surrounding areas in Central Virginia, offering dependable plumbing, electrical, handyman and various other interior and exterior services to homeowners who want their homes in top shape year-round.
Call us today or visit Handy Home Helpers to schedule your fall maintenance appointment and prepare your home for winter the right way.
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